As the summer transfer window heats up, West Ham United are eyeing a potential move for Manchester City midfielder James McAtee—a name that’s been touted for greatness but remains largely untapped under Pep Guardiola. With the Hammers in dire need of attacking creativity following the departure of Mohammed Kudus, McAtee could be the ideal addition to reignite Graham Potter’s sluggish squad.
A Talent Left Waiting in the Wings
James McAtee has long been regarded as one of Manchester City’s most technically gifted academy products. An England U21 regular with a sharp eye for goal and intelligent movement, the 22-year-old has struggled to find regular playing time at the Etihad.
Despite being listed for 17 appearances during the 2024/25 campaign, McAtee started only five games and played a total of just 522 minutes—barely the equivalent of six full matches. While his shooting accuracy stood at a modest 30.8%, his 23.1% shot conversion rate was the highest in the entire Man City squad, highlighting his efficiency in front of goal when given the chance.
Even Guardiola acknowledged his role in stalling McAtee’s development:
“We haven’t seen enough from James this season because I didn’t allow him to play minutes,” the City boss admitted in April. “He trains really well, plays in different positions, and I like him… but we will see.”
West Ham: A Perfect Platform for Progress
The door appears open for McAtee to move on, and West Ham could be the right club at the right time. With Mohammed Kudus sold earlier in the window, the Hammers are in desperate need of a player who can unlock defences and contribute goals from midfield. McAtee ticks both boxes.
New manager Graham Potter is still searching for a formula that works, with his tenure so far yielding just five wins in 18 matches—a win rate of only 27.8%. That’s even lower than his predecessor Julen Lopetegui, whose own 31.8% rate saw him ousted amid fan discontent. A creative spark like McAtee could help shift the momentum.
Style Fit and Tactical Value
McAtee’s versatility would be a major asset for West Ham. Whether deployed as a No. 8 or in a more advanced No. 10 role, his strengths—line-breaking runs, space awareness, and intelligent distribution—are qualities the Hammers sorely lack.
With an 86.5% pass completion rate last season, McAtee would rank among the most accurate passers at the club. Pairing him with Lucas Paquetá could transform the rhythm of West Ham’s midfield, offering both flair and control in tight situations.
While he doesn’t offer Kudus’ physicality, McAtee compensates with creativity and the ability to dictate play in the final third—something that’s been glaringly absent under Potter’s tenure so far.
The Financial and Competitive Landscape
City are reportedly valuing McAtee at £35 million—an arguably steep fee for a player with limited Premier League exposure. However, West Ham are not alone in their interest, with other clubs reportedly circling the talented youngster.
Still, his performances at the U21 European Championship earlier this summer showcased what he can deliver when trusted with responsibility. McAtee played a pivotal role in driving England’s youth side forward, thriving under pressure and contributing in key attacking phases.
A Rebuild Beyond One Signing
The recent signing of El Hadji Malick Diouf is a welcome step, but it won’t be enough to compete in an increasingly competitive Premier League. If West Ham are serious about turning their fortunes around, they’ll need to continue building around players like McAtee who offer both present impact and future potential.
For McAtee, West Ham could be the stage he’s been waiting for. And for Potter, he might be the playmaker who finally helps turn possession into points.
